Meet Dr Maya Gavish: Head of Dance AMPA
Dr Maya Gavish
Photographer: Kate Garrett
What makes full time study at AMPA stand out against other options available?
“Compared to the many certificate or diploma full time programs available, AMPA is the only performance-based bachelor degree in NSW, exposing graduates to more diverse professional and educational pathways while specialising in dance performance.
Our students perform three times a year and consequently, gain plenty of stage experience and the opportunity to learn from many choreographers with diverse artistic approaches. While the Bachelor of Dance degree is practice-focused, there is also a strong emphasis on academic rigour and knowledge acquisition. Students participate in classes such as Body Science, Production, Musicianship, Arts Management, Dance History and Performance Psychology. These not only enhance the students understanding of their body, the art form and dance industry but also opens more career opportunities for them.
At AMPA we value versatility. Our dancers train in a variety of techniques during the week, shaping them into well-rounded dancers. However, they also get to choose a major and specialise in a genre of choice.
Creativity is highly encouraged and supported at AMPA. With guidance and mentorship, second year students choreograph and produce their own 15-minute dance work as part of the capstone unit ‘Project’. Training dancers to think independently and present their work to a live audience is certainly unique to full time dance education. In fact, it is this pragmatic approach that prepares many of our graduates to take over the independent dance scene with confidence and success.
AMPA is student-focused. We have small class sizes and dancers receive plenty of attention and guidance from their teachers.
Another advantage of studying at AMPA is that full-time students can complete their training over two years, earning a higher qualification which increases their competitiveness when applying for jobs and allowing them to continue onto post-graduate studies.
Many young dancers consider leaving their home and travel overseas to train. However, with our international faculty and exposure to different cultures and teaching methods, students learning is profoundly enriched.”
What kind of dancers benefit from your courses?
“The dance program best suits individuals seeking to excel in the field of dance while training full-time in a tertiary environment. It is particularly designed for individuals who are thinking about pursuing a career in dance.
The course caters for a diverse range of dancers, making it an ideal fit for individuals interested in exploring different styles & boosting their versatility. Dancers who love performing and those interested in taking their technique and artistry to the next level.
Creatively inclined dancers who are interested in developing their choreographic practice will find plenty of opportunities to do so through our improvisation, choreography and performance units. Additionally, AMPA's selection of complimentary studies and expert faculty will enable dancers with an intellectual curiosity to expand their knowledge from a theoretical stand point.
The dance course at AMPA empowers dancers to unlock their full potential and provides the necessary tools for those interested in becoming performers, teachers, choreographers, art administrators, academics and researchers.”
What do you look for in an audition?
“We look for dancers with former training in dance that demonstrate good potential as well as confidence in how they communicate and perform. In the audition itself, we look for dancers who are engaged and focused, embody feedback well, show eagerness to learn, enthusiasm and passion for dance.
It is also important that applicants have clear goals and vision for their future. By having this clarity, dancers are better able to endure the challenges associated with full-time training.”
What skills and experience can students expect to leave a course at AMPA with?
“Throughout the course, students hone their technical proficiency and artistic expression. They gain a deeper understanding of choreography and production, allowing them to create well-crafted & meaningful performances while exploring their own voice.
Additionally, collaborative opportunities with fellow dancers and exposure to industry professionals foster teamwork, adaptability, and leadership, as well as better understanding of different working methods, dance philosophies and practices.
AMPA's alumni network and industry connections provide valuable support and open doors for graduates as they embark on their dance journeys.
Dancers develop confidence, discipline, resilience, and determination, qualities that are invaluable not only in the dance world but in life as well.
Overall, the dance course at AMPA empowers students with a well-rounded skill set, academic aptitude, artistic flair, and a solid foundation to excel in the dynamic and competitive world of dance..”
How can people find out more about your programs throughout the year?
“All the information about the Bachelor & Associate of Dance programs can be found on our website and social media. You can also email admissions for specific question and apply via this link.”
AMPA runs Open Days throughout the year which are a great opportunity to visit the campus, meet students and staff and learn more about the program. Lastly, prospective students are encouraged to attend the tri-annual performances and experience first-hand what the students worked on throughout the trimester.”
What types of opportunities do your alumni go on to secure?
“AMPA's dance program allows graduates to explore diverse career paths. Alumni have gone on to secure a wide range of opportunities in the dance industry and related fields.
A portion of our graduates pursue careers as professional dancers in different companies, musical theatre productions, cruise ships, or as freelance performers. Others established themselves as choreographers & directors, dance educators or studio owners.
Some work in arts management and others in dance-related media such as film-making.
Fitness and Wellness is another avenue our dancers tend to gravitate toward particularly as Pilates & body conditioning instructors.
We see more alumni choosing to continue onto post-graduate studies in the performing arts or related fields, leading to academic careers, research opportunities, or specialized expertise.
See examples of graduates: Liam Berg, Thuba Ndibali, Brayden Harry, Lana Borisova, Bonnie Curtis, Sarah Goroch, Anna McCulla, Teagan Dixon, Evie Morris, Shone Weiler, Julian Chan, Emma Johns”